News

Shoulder in good shape

General manager Brandon Beane confirmed this week that the shoulder injury that sidelined Allen for four games during his rookie season has completely healed and should not have any impact on the quarterback's offseason work, Jay Skurski of The Buffalo News reports.

Analysis: Allen validated his health by concluding the season with a bang, throwing for three scores while running in another two in a big win over the Dolphins, taking home AFC Offensive Player of the Week honors in the process. While the big-armed Allen certainly had his ups and downs, he'll enter his second season with plenty of fantasy promise based on his ability to churn out yardage and scores on the ground. His accuracy still needs some work and may always be an issue, and the Bills would benefit…read more

Published: Wed, Jan 2 at 12:13pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Runs wild as rookie

Allen completed 17 of 26 passes for 224 yards, three touchdowns and an interception in Sunday's 42-17 win over Miami. He also rushed nine times for 95 yards and two touchdowns, finishing his rookie campaign with 2,074 yards, 10 touchdowns and 12 interceptions through the air, along with 89 carries for 631 yards and eight touchdowns.

Analysis: Allen was drafted in the first round thanks to his tremendous physical gifts, but his prolific rushing totals significantly surpassed expectations. If he ever figures out how to also pass effectively, the big-armed quarterback would become one of the most dangerous fantasy options at his position. Buffalo's goals this offseason should focus on surrounding Allen with significantly greater talent on offense.

Published: Sun, Dec 30 at 3:10pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Awful outside of garbage time TD

Allen completed 20 of 41 passes for 217 yards, a touchdown and two interceptions while rushing five times for 30 yards in Sunday's 24-12 loss to New England.

Analysis: The Patriots didn't give Allen much room to run, and his inaccurate arm couldn't move the offense through the air. Allen's stats in this one were bolstered by a 31-yard, garbage time touchdown to Zay Jones with 1:08 remaining, but he struggled mightily while the result was still in question. Owners who started to look Allen's way due to his deceptively strong play with his legs will need to hope he finds more running room against the Dolphins in Week 17, as the rookie still doesn't look…read more

Published: Sun, Dec 23 at 3:06pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Wins despite subpar cast

Allen completed 13 of 26 passes for 204 yards and a touchdown while adding 16 yards and a touchdown on nine carries in Sunday's 14-13 win over Detroit.

Analysis: Allen continued to do damage with his legs, finding paydirt on a three-yard scramble in the second quarter. His atrocious supporting cast got even worse as the game wore on, as the Bills were already without their top two running backs and also lost fill-in starter Marcus Murphy to a dislocated elbow. The lack of running backs didn't stop Allen from delivering a 42-yard touchdown pass to Robert Foster to take a 14-13 lead with 10:26 remaining, and the score didn't change from there. Owners who…read more

Published: Sun, Dec 16 at 2:06pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Legs making up for poor passing

Allen completed 18 of 36 passes for 206 yards and two interceptions in Sunday's 27-23 loss to the Jets. He also rushed for 101 yards and a touchdown on nine carries, in addition to losing a fumble.

Analysis: Allen capped the opening drive with a six-yard rushing touchdown en route to 87 first-half rushing yards. The athletic rookie has bolstered his fantasy stock by piling up 335 yards on the ground over the past three games, but he's also averaging fewer than 200 passing yards and has more interceptions than touchdowns through the air over that span, leaving much to be desired with his play under center. Buffalo didn't draft Allen with the expectation of immediate NFL-readiness, so he remains a…read more

Published: Sun, Dec 9 at 3:35pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Nearly pulls off upset

Allen completed 18 of 33 passes for 231 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in the Bills' 21-17 loss to the Dolphins on Sunday. He also completed a two-point conversion pass, rushed nine times for 135 yards and fumbled once, although it was recovered by the offense.

Analysis: The rookie was spectacular with his legs, leading all rushers in ground yards by a comfortable margin while also putting up the second-highest passing yardage total of his career. The 22-year-old connected with Zay Jones for touchdown passes of 15 and 25 yards in the second and fourth quarters, respectively, while also hooking up with the receiver for a two-point conversion pass subsequent to the latter score. Allen continually moved the chains with his legs, and he nearly allowed the Bills to…read more

Published: Sun, Dec 2 at 1:43pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Makes some highlights in return

Allen completed eight of 19 passes for 160 yards and a touchdown and added 99 yards and a touchdown on 13 carries during Sunday's 24-21 win over the Jaguars. He fumbled once, but the ball stayed with the offense.

Analysis: Allen did the bulk of his damage with his legs, but nobody is going to forget the 75-yard javelin-toss that he hit Robert Foster with late in the first quarter, putting Buffalo up by two scores early. It's hard to see what Allen's ceiling is this season for the Bills as there isn't a ton of talent along the line or at the skill positions. Still, a few highlight-reel plays against a stingy Jacksonville defense in his first game back is a strong start. Next up is another tough test, a Miami…read more

Published: Sun, Nov 25 at 2:34pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Will return, start Sunday

Analysis: A confirmed full practice participant all week, Allen has done enough to get the all-clear from coach Sean McDermott, who said Friday that the rookie would "start Sunday as long as he gets through today." As he prepares for his first game action since Week 6, Allen will be backed up by Matt Barkley after Derek Anderson (concussion) was ruled out yet again.

Published: Fri, Nov 23 at 11:40am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

On track to start Sunday

Head coach Sean McDermott said Friday morning that Allen (elbow) will start Sunday against the Jaguars "as long as he gets through (Friday's practice)" without issue.

Analysis: Allen has practiced fully all week, so McDermott's comments simply reaffirm he will be back under center in Week 12 barring any setbacks at Friday's session. His status will be confirmed when the Bills release their final injury report of the week after practice concludes.

Published: Fri, Nov 23 at 8:46am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Logs full practice

Allen (elbow) was listed as a full practice participant Wednesday.

Analysis: According to Joe Buscaglia of WKBW.com, coach Sean McDermott wouldn't fully commit Wednesday to Allen taking back the starting role in Week 12, though it would be a major surprise if that didn't happen. So long as the rookie incurs no setbacks with his right elbow in practices Thursday and Friday, the Bills should clear him to play for the first time since Oct. 14. Though Matt Barkley led the Bills to a 41-10 win over the Jets in Week 10, Buffalo is more incentivized to use what remains of its…read more

Published: Wed, Nov 21 at 1:10pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Begins week with full practice

Coach Sean McDermott said that Allen (elbow) will put in a full practice Monday and is on track to start the Bills' Week 12 game against the Jaguars, Mike Rodak of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: McDermott stressed that the coaching staff is taking it "one day at a time" with the rookie as he works back from a sprained right elbow, but Allen's full participation in practice coming out of the Bills' bye week offers further reassurance that he's trending positively in his recovery. Since the Bills won't release their first injury report of Week 12 until Wednesday, Allen will retain a designation for the time being, but the signal-caller looks poised to put a four-game absence to an end.…read more

Published: Mon, Nov 19 at 7:36am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Will start when healthy

Head coach Sean McDermott said Monday that Allen (elbow), if healthy, will return to the starting lineup Week 12 following Buffalo's Week 11 bye.

Analysis: Allen has been out of commission since Week 6 due to an elbow injury. With Derek Anderson (concussion) also unavailable and Nathan Peterman getting benched after throwing three picks against Chicago, the Bills turned to veteran Matt Barkley to command the offense for Sunday's 41-10 demolition of the Jets. However, despite Barkley's impressive play, Buffalo is still committed to Allen's development, and it's now clear that the rookie will get as many reps as his health will allow. Fortunately,…read more

Published: Mon, Nov 12 at 10:53am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Week 12 start not guaranteed

Coach Sean McDermott says he's undecided on his Week 12 starting quarterback after Allen's (elbow) teammate Matt Barkley led the Bills to a surprise win Sunday over the Jets, Kyle Silagyi of the Bills' official site reports. "Yeah, give me some time here on that," McDermott said. "We'll reassess [Monday] when we get in and look at the film. I'm just proud of the guys, really, the way they battled [Sunday]. The week before the bye, in particular, to be focused and come out with that type of energy says a lot about them."

Analysis: Allen, who's now missed four games after suffering an elbow injury in the Week 6 loss to the Texans, was close to being ready for Sunday's start, but the team decided to play it safe and roll with the journeyman Barkley, who tossed for 232 yards and two touchdowns (no interceptions) with an impressive 9.3 yards per attempt. Make no mistake, Allen is the long-term starter, but the Buffalo offense showed a spark for one of the only times all season Sunday, with Barkley looking more polished than…read more

Published: Mon, Nov 12 at 9:34am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Expected to return Week 12

Analysis: Allen maintained a limited listing on Bills injury reports all week, earning a "questionable" tag Friday. Just one day later, though, the Bills ruled out the rookie signal-caller due to his sprained right elbow. Allen will join Derek Anderson (concussion) on the inactive list Sunday against the Jets, giving Matt Barkley a chance to start for the first time since 2016, with Nathan Peterman acting as the backup. Allen will use the upcoming bye to get even healthier in order to make an appearance…read more

Published: Sun, Nov 11 at 8:17am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Ruled out for Sunday

Allen (elbow) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Jets.

Analysis: Allen managed to practice in a limited capacity all week and was initially listed as questionable following Friday's practice, but the rookie signal-caller evidently isn't healthy enough to start Sunday's game, or at least the Bills don't want to put their franchise quarterback at risk with a bye coming up. This opens the door for the recently-signed Matt Barkley to make his first NFL start since 2016. Nathan Peterman is expected to act as Barkley's backup while Allen will aim to return to…read more

Published: Sat, Nov 10 at 1:12pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Questionable for Sunday

Allen (elbow) is listed as questionable for Sunday's road game against the Jets.

Analysis: Allen was a limited practice participant all week, marking his first activity since spraining his right throwing elbow Week 6. With a "questionable" tag for the Bills' upcoming visit to New York, he has a chance to return, though coach Sean McDermott told Joe Buscaglia of WKBW.com that the rookie's health is paramount, suggesting his status will come down to a game-time decision. The Bills have ruled out Derek Anderson (concussion), so the remaining quarterback options for this contest -- if…read more

Published: Fri, Nov 9 at 11:22am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Will be limited Friday

Head coach Sean McDermott said Friday morning that Allen (elbow) will be limited at the Bills' final practice session of the week, Mike Rodak of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Allen will get some work in for the third straight day, which bodes well for his chances of returning to action this week. However, McDermott did not commit to Allen starting just yet, and indicated the focus remains on Allen's health. Fellow quarterback Derek Anderson (concussion) has been ruled out for Week 10, so if Allen remains sidelined, either Nathan Peterman or even Matt Barkley, according to Joe Buscaglia of WKBW.com, will get the nod instead.

Published: Fri, Nov 9 at 7:40am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Turns in another limited practice

Allen (elbow) was listed as a limited participant in Thursday's practice.

Analysis: According to Matthew Fairburn of The Athletic, Allen continued to sport a protective brace over his sprained right elbow, which has kept him out of action the last two games. There seems to be more optimism about Allen's health this week after he was able to practice on back-to-back days in limited fashion, leaving the door open for him to potentially start Sunday against the Jets. In order for that to be realistic, however, Allen will likely need to fit in more work in full team drills, as he…read more

Published: Thu, Nov 8 at 11:47am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Making progress in recovery

After practicing in limited fashion Wednesday, Allen (elbow) relayed that he's "still taking it day to day" as Sunday's game against the Jets approaches, Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports. "Just trying to work [through] if there's any soreness or stiffness and just trying to get back in the swing of playing football again," Allen said. "I was limited at practice, but it felt good throwing the ball."

Analysis: Per Brown, Allen "appears to have an outside chance at returning to the lineup Sunday." That implies the Bills will take a cautious approach with him, which makes sense with a Week 11 bye looming. Meanwhile, fellow signal-caller Derek Anderson remains in the NFL's concussion protocol and didn't practice Wednesday, leaving the struggling Nathan Peterman as the team's top healthy option at the position.

Published: Wed, Nov 7 at 12:02pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Back at practice

Coach Sean McDermott said that Allen (elbow) would practice Wednesday on a limited basis. "We haven't seen any setbacks in [Allen's] rehab but we're going to take it one day at a time," McDermott said of the quarterback's Week 10 outlook.

Analysis: The wheels have been coming off for the 2-7 Bills and their offense has been a laughingstock for weeks. If the team truly wants to play it safe with the prized rookie, then it would probably prefer to hold Allen out until Nov. 25 against the Jaguars, as a Week 11 bye would offer the quarterback additional time to recuperate. That said, the whole squad is getting frustrated after three straight games of single-digit point totals and there's something to be said about getting Allen as much…read more

Published: Wed, Nov 7 at 8:39am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Possibility for Week 10

Allen (elbow) threw again Monday, and afterwards coach Sean McDermott said, "We're going to take it day to day at this point in terms of his availability for this week," Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports.

Analysis: McDermott won't make any promises about Allen's status for Sunday's game against the Jets, but he's leaving open the possibility while also noting that the team gets a bye in Week 11 should it choose to be extra cautious. Either way, it looks like the Bills will get their potential franchise quarterback back in one of the next two games. While he's struggled at times in his first campaign, Allen has already proven to be a vastly better option than Derek Anderson (concussion) or Nathan Peterman.

Published: Mon, Nov 5 at 2:38pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Getting closer?

Allen's threw for the second straight Saturday, the first time he's done so on back-to-back days since suffering his elbow injury. Coach Sean McDermott says he has not yet ruled Allen out for next week's game against the Jets and will evaluate the rookie all week, Joe Buscaglia of WKBW.com reports.

Analysis: After watching Nathan Peterman and Derek Anderson struggle miserably the past three games, Allen can't come back soon enough, though the Bills could always play it safe with a bye coming up in Week 11. We'll know more about Allen once practice starts up for the struggling Bills on Wednesday.

Published: Sun, Nov 4 at 1:50pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Ruled out, but logs limited practice

Allen (elbow), who has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Bears, logged a limited practice Friday, Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports.

Analysis: Allen's return to a limited practice suggests that he could return as soon as the Bills' Week 10 game against the Jets. Alternatively, if the Bills elect to take things slow with the rookie quarterback, Allen could be held out through the team's Week 11 bye. As for Sunday's game, with Derek Anderson still in the NFL's concussion protocol, Nathan Peterman is trending toward earning the starting nod.

Published: Fri, Nov 2 at 12:41pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Still out Sunday, but sports helmet Friday

Analysis: Allen has already been ruled out for Sunday's matchup with the Bears, but it's notable that he had his helmet on for the first time since injuring his right elbow in Week 6. That indicates he's making progress in his recovery and could have a chance to return to action Week 10 against the Jets. However, the Bills are on bye in Week 11, so unless he makes rapid progress over the next few days, it seems likely Allen will be held out at least until Week 12. Either Derek Anderson -- if he clears…read more

Published: Fri, Nov 2 at 8:31am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Could resume throwing soon

Analysis: Allen is not an option for Sunday's game against the Bears, at a minimum, but the 2-6 Bills could really use a spark on offense and getting the rookie QB some additional game experience once he's healthy is in the team's best interests. Looking ahead, the Bills may elect to hold Allen out through the team's Week 11 bye and see where he's at as a Nov. 25 match against the Jaguars approaches. For now, it looks like Nathan Peterman is line to start for the team this weekend, with Derek Anderson…read more

Published: Thu, Nov 1 at 10:48am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Out for one more week

Coach Sean McDermott has already ruled out Allen (elbow) for this week's game against the Bears, Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports.

Analysis: Given the team's 2-6 record and the awful play of Derek Anderson and Nathan Peterman subbing in, this would have been the perfect no-pressure game to insert the rookie back into the lineup, but his long-term health will take priority here. Allen's next chance to play will come in Week 10 against the Jets, while it's worth noting if the team really wants to play it safe, the Bills have their bye in Week 11.

Published: Tue, Oct 30 at 1:21pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Still week-to-week

Coach Sean McDermott said Allen (elbow) is week-to-week but "moving in the right direction," Joe Buscaglia of WKBW.com reports.

Analysis: Allen is working throw his recovery from a right elbow sprain, which has sidelined him for one game and will keep him on the inactive list Monday against the Patriots. In his stead, Derek Anderson (back/calf) will start for a second consecutive game, assuming he gets past his own injuries. The Bills don't have a reprieve until a Week 11 bye, so the preceding could be the team's reality for a few more contests.

Published: Fri, Oct 26 at 2:14pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Still not practicing

Allen (elbow) isn't participating in practice Thursday, Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports.

Analysis: The Bills already ruled Allen out for their Week 8 game against the Patriots three days ago, so it's not expected he'll practice Thursday through Saturday while he nurses a sprained throwing elbow. Derek Anderson will earn a second straight start Monday in Allen's stead, despite an ugly showing in his team debut in the 37-5 loss to Indianapolis in Week 7.

Published: Thu, Oct 25 at 8:41am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Ruled out for Week 8

Allen (elbow) will not play Week 8 against the Patriots, Matthew Fairburn of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Derek Anderson will get the start on Monday Night Football in Week 8, even after committing four turnovers in Sunday's 37-5 loss to the Colts. Allen remains week-to-week while recovering from a sprain in his throwing elbow.

Published: Mon, Oct 22 at 1:21pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Officially out for Week 7

Coach Sean McDermott announced that Allen (elbow) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Colts and is considered week-to-week, Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports.

Analysis: McDermott also relayed that veteran Derek Anderson would take over as the team's starting quarterback in place of Allen, who has been diagnosed with a right elbow sprain but won't require surgery at this time. Allen likely will be withheld from practice this week and treat the injury through rest and rehab, with the hope of returning to action after missing only two or three games. Nathan Peterman will serve as Anderson's backup while the rookie is sidelined.

Published: Wed, Oct 17 at 8:54am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Expected to sit out 2-to-3 games

Allen (elbow) is expected to miss 2-to-3 games, after which he'll be considered "week-to-week," Tom Pelissero of NFL.com reports.

Analysis: Although Tommy John surgery isn't an option after Dr. James Andrews reviewed an MRI of Allen's right elbow, he'll need a few games to rest and rehab before the Bills will ponder the notion of trotting him out there on gamedays. Without Allen, there's a bit of a quarterback quandary in Buffalo. Nathan Peterman has the most experience with the current coaching staff and its playbook, but his turnover-prone ways have not diminished, with two interceptions in both of his appearances this season.…read more

Published: Tue, Oct 16 at 4:12pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Likely doesn't need Tommy John surgery

The Bills don't believe Allen will need Tommy John surgery on his right elbow, Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports. "You don't see a whole lot of that in football and the hope is here that this will not be the case with Josh Allen, that it will be something that will keep him out maybe a couple of weeks here but they're hopeful that it is something that will heal," Garafolo said.

Analysis: Allen has been diagnosed with a UCL injury, which was accompanied by a "week-to-week" tag from coach Sean McDermott. Considering Garafolo's comments, Allen doesn't seem like a great bet to suit up for Sunday's game at Indianapolis, but McDermott hasn't ruled Allen out, according to Chris Brown of the Bills' official site. When the Bills eventually make a decision on their upcoming starter under center, Derek Anderson seemingly has a better shot to be tabbed than interception machine Nathan…read more

Published: Tue, Oct 16 at 11:57am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Won't start Week 7 game

Allen (elbow) won't be available to start Sunday's game against the Colts, Dianna Russini of ESPN reports. The report adds that there's concern within the organization that Allen "will miss weeks."

Analysis: Buffalo hasn't officially ruled the quarterback out for Week 7 action, but coach Sean McDermott did acknowledge that he views the signal-caller as "week to week." Per Russini, the Bills haven't decided who will start at quarterback during the upcoming weekend, but there's a "feeling in the organization" that veteran Derek Anderson "has to start" over Nathan Peterman, who struggled in relief of Allen during the Week 6 loss to the Texans.

Published: Tue, Oct 16 at 7:00am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Diagnosed with UCL injury

Allen has been diagnosed with an injured ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: After suffering the injury Sunday at Houston, Allen was unable to return, and coach Sean McDermott eventually called him "week-to-week" Monday, per Chris Brown of the Bills' official site. While the injury isn't considered serious, an MRI of Allen's right elbow has been sent to Dr. James Andrews for a second opinion. For perspective, this injury cost Marcus Mariota two starts earlier this season, though he was pressed into action in the second one because his backup (Blaine Gabbert) suffered a…read more

Published: Mon, Oct 15 at 6:19pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Week-to-week with elbow injury

Coach Sean McDermott said Monday that Allen, who injured his throwing elbow during Sunday's loss to the Texans, is "week-to-week," Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports. McDermott went on to say that "all options will be on the table at QB this week."

Analysis: McDermott refused to rule Allen out for this week's game against the Colts, so we'll have to wait until practices take place in a few days to get a better gauge on his status other than coach speak. Nathan Peterman is currently the No. 2 option, but he's been horrible in limited action and threw a pick-six with the score tied Sunday that cost the Bills a good chance at an upset. Newly signed veteran Derek Anderson is another option.

Published: Mon, Oct 15 at 1:14pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Hurts right elbow

Allen left Sunday's loss to the Texans in the third quarter due to a right (throwing) elbow injury, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle reports.

Analysis: Allen's status for Week 7's game against the Colts is thus cloudy. Nathan Peterman, who replaced Allen on Sunday, proceeded to toss a couple of costly picks in his relief appearance. Derek Anderson was the Bills' inactive third QB against the Texans.

Published: Sun, Oct 14 at 1:05pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Exits Sunday's game with elbow injury

Allen was replaced by Nathan Peterman during Sunday's game against the Texans after suffering an elbow injury, Mike Rodak of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Prior to his exit from the game, Allen had completed 10 of 17 passes for 84 yards and carried four times for 20 yards.

Published: Sun, Oct 14 at 12:12pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Held under 100 passing yards in scrappy win

Allen completed 10 of 19 passes for 82 yards and an interception while adding 19 yards and a touchdown on four rushing attempts in Sunday's 13-12 win over the Titans.

Analysis: Allen capped Buffalo's first drive with a 14-yard touchdown run. He failed to find the end zone again after that score but limited his mistakes and put the Bills in position to convert a game-winning, 46-yard field goal as time expired. While Allen has shown intriguing potential with his legs -- his three rushing touchdowns so far are already a team record for rushing touchdowns by a rookie quarterback -- his lack of passing production will make him tough to trust against Houston in Week 6 and…read more

Published: Sun, Oct 7 at 1:16pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

As bad as it gets in Week 4

Allen completed 16 of 33 passes for 151 yards and two interceptions while rushing five times for 19 yards and losing a fumble in Sunday's 22-0 loss at Green Bay.

Analysis: Allen made an egregious error with his team looking for its first points in the final minute of the first half, throwing an interception in the end zone on an ill-advised wobbler over the middle under pressure. That mistake was a fitting end to a half in which Allen completed just five of 19 passes for 58 yards. He was picked off once more in the second half and failed to get his team on the scoreboard. Tennessee's defense should be a popular add as Allen and the Bills will host the Titans in…read more

Published: Sun, Sep 30 at 2:11pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Generates three TDs in improbable win

Allen completed 15 of 22 pass attempts for 196 yards and a touchdown Sunday against the Vikings. He also carried 10 times for 39 yards and two touchdowns in the 27-6 win.

Analysis: Starting on the road against one of the league's best defensive units, Allen completed 68 percent of his passes while managing not to turn the ball over, though he nearly lost fumbles on multiple occasions. He completed a 26-yard touchdown pass to Jason Croom while scoring rushing touchdowns in the first and second quarters. It was an impressive bounce-back performance from Allen, who turned the ball over twice against the Chargers in his first NFL start last week. The rookie has also displayed…read more

Published: Sun, Sep 23 at 1:36pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Week 3 starter

Coach Sean McDermott confirmed Monday that Allen will start Week 3 against the Vikings, Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports.

Analysis: This was expected all along unless Allen got hurt or looked pathetic in the Week 2 loss to the Chargers, neither of which happened. The Bills are 0-2 and even though they made the playoffs last season, appear content to make this a sacrificial year that builds up towards a brighter long-term future, which has been supported in several other decisions unrelated to starting a rookie quarterback. Expect Allen to be the guy as long as he shows he's not overmatched.

Published: Mon, Sep 17 at 1:34pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Tosses for 245 yards in first pro start

Allen completed 18 of 33 passes for 245 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions during Sunday's 31-20 loss to the Chargers.

Analysis: The Bills found themselves down 14-0 at the 4:18 mark of the first quarter, partly due to losing the yardage battle 108-0. Thereafter, Allen led his unit on four drives of 50-plus yards on its final nine possessions, while scattering a three-yard touchdown to Kelvin Benjamin and two interceptions across his first professional start. Considering he's looked far more comfortable under center than Nathan Peterman, Allen is expected to remain the Bills' starting quarterback for the foreseeable…read more

Published: Sun, Sep 16 at 2:51pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Slated to retain starting job

Allen is viewed as the Bills' starting QB moving forward, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

Analysis: Though Nathan Peterman beat out Allen for the team's Week 1 starting assignment, he faltered in that game, paving the way for Allen to draw the nod in Week 2. Per Rapoport, "this is not a one-game audition" for the No. 7 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. Though Allen's arm strength gives him some fantasy upside down the road, the Bills' pass-catching corps remains a work in progress and the team's current personnel on offense (including LeSean McCoy) favors a run-first attack.

Published: Sun, Sep 16 at 7:34am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Earns Week 2 starting nod

Allen will start at quarterback Sunday in the Bills' Week 2 matchup with the Chargers, Chris Mortensen of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Nathan Peterman's run as the Bills' starter lasted all of two quarters, with the second-year player getting pulled early in Sunday's 47-3 loss to the Ravens after completing only five of 18 passes for 24 yards while tossing a pair of interceptions. Allen didn't provide a dramatic upgrade over Peterman while making his NFL debut in garbage time, but head coach Sean McDermott saw enough from the rookie first-round pick to hand him the keys to the offense. In light of his own accuracy concerns…read more

Published: Wed, Sep 12 at 7:28am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Week 2 decision still looms

Coach Sean McDermott said Monday that he hasn't made up his mind yet between starting Nathan Peterman or Allen in this week's game against the Chargers, Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports. "There are a lot of things that would go into that decision," McDermott said in reference to Allen "To get into all the things that I have to look at and consider, it's not as simple as some might think. I've got to look at the overall team in all three phases and Josh's development being one of them."

Analysis: Allen performed better than Peterman in Sunday's drubbing, but both quarterbacks made mistakes and the team may not be ready to start its prized rookie just yet. That said, Peterman hasn't finished any of his three NFL starts, and the Bills looked so bad Week 1 that it may be time to turn the page to the future sooner rather than later. We'll find out in the next day or two if the future is now.

Published: Mon, Sep 10 at 4:36pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Makes debut

Allen completed six of 15 passes for 74 yards and rushed for 26 yards on four carries during Sunday's 47-3 loss to the Ravens.

Analysis: Allen was not supposed to play Sunday as the Bills sought to protect their first-round pick by waiting a bit to play him. However, following some putrid offensive play in a game that got out of hand, they decided to roll the dice. It was a mixed bag for the rookie, as he completed just 40 percent of his passes but also flashed some of the natural talent that got him drafted -- particularly on a scramble that resulted in a 24-yard dart to tight end Logan Thomas. The Allen era may have arrived,…read more

Published: Sun, Sep 9 at 1:38pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Enters game in third quarter

Allen took over for Nathan Peterman during Sunday's game against the Ravens.

Analysis: Peterman was having a very rough day in a blowout game, so the Bills turned to their 2018 first-rounder in the third quarter. It remains to be seen if he'll hold on to the job next week against the Chargers, but either way, the strong-armed Allen is probably worth a speculative add in deeper QB-heavy leagues.

Published: Sun, Sep 9 at 12:20pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Loses out on starting gig

Allen will open the season as the Bills' backup quarterback after Nathan Peterman was officially named the starter Monday for the team's Week 1 matchup with the Ravens, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Allen made a case for the No. 1 gig by performing well in the Bills' first two exhibitions, but he lost most of his momentum with an ugly showing in the all-important third preseason contest Aug. 26 against the Bengals. The rookie signal-caller completed only six of 12 passes for 34 yards in that game and was sacked five times for a net loss of 39 yards. While Allen did a solid job in limiting turnovers during the exhibition slate, it's clear that he still has some work to do with improving his…read more

Published: Mon, Sep 3 at 6:22am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Line offers no help

Allen completed six of 12 passes for just 34 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions in Sunday's preseason loss to the Bengals, posting a 56.3 passer rating.

Analysis: If Allen's teammates wanted the rookie to win the starting quarterback job over AJ McCarron and Nathan Peterman, they certainly didn't do him a solid in this one between horrible blocking and missed catches. Allen was sacked five times for 39 yards -- in other words, he was dumped on his behind for more yardage than his passing total. With McCarron about ready to return from a shoulder injury, the quarterback battle in Buffalo remains wide open just two weeks prior to the start of the season.

Published: Sun, Aug 26 at 5:21pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Cleared to return

Allen has been medically cleared after being evaluated for a head injury.

Analysis: Great news for the Bills after the rookie signal-caller left Sunday's preseason game against the Bengals after being taken down to the ground by a defender and landing awkwardly. He was replaced in the contest by Nathan Peterman and presumably won't return to action Sunday despite being cleared.

Published: Sun, Aug 26 at 2:52pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Forced out of Sunday's game

Allen left Sunday's game against the Bengals late in the second quarter, presumably to undergo concussion testing, Mike Rodak of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: With Allen forced out of the game, Nathan Peterman took over at QB for the Bills. Regardless of whether Allen is medically cleared during halftime, his day is probably done. The Bills' Week 1 QB situation remains cloudy.

Published: Sun, Aug 26 at 2:39pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Working with starters

Allen will take most of the first-team reps during practice this week, Joe Buscaglia of WKBW.com reports.

Analysis: Allen has already been named as the starter for Sunday's preseason game against the Bengals, essentially confirming that he's in the mix for the Week 1 starting job. Teams usually use the third week of the preseason to mimic their regular-season routine, and the Bills are doing just that by treating Allen as the starter all week. Nathan Peterman and AJ McCarron (shoulder) aren't out of the running just yet, but Allen can probably earn the job with strong showing in Sunday's game.

Published: Wed, Aug 22 at 8:05am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Will start team's third preseason game

Allen will start Sunday's preseason game against the Bengals, Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports.

Analysis: This is a huge opportunity for the rookie, who should play with the starters well into the game. The news doesn't mean Allen has won the starting job over Nathan Peterman and an injured AJ McCarron (collarbone), but it does mean he's in the running for the Week 1 start, and he may just be the favorite after two strong preseason showings. Coach Sean McDermott should have a good idea of his starter after Allen takes his turn with the ones in what's normally the most important preseason game.

Published: Mon, Aug 20 at 3:22pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Works with first team

Allen worked with the starting group during Monday's practice, Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports. "(Josh) will be working with the ones and Nate will be working with the twos today," said coach Sean McDermott. "We're staying with the rotation. Nate had the reps with the ones yesterday. Josh will have them today."

Analysis: AJ McCarron suffered a collarbone injury during Friday's preseason game, and all McDermott would say about the matter is that McCarron would miss Monday's practice and is still under evaluation. Consider Allen firmly in the mix to start Week 1 given that he'll be alternating with the ones and twos as long as McCarron is out. We'll see if the rookie, who has looked progressively better through training camp and two preseason tilts, or Nathan Peterman gets the start in Sunday's third preseason…read more

Published: Mon, Aug 20 at 10:52am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Could make run at Week 1 start

With AJ McCarron dealing with a hairline fracture to his right collarbone, Mike Rodak of ESPN.com expects Allen and Nathan Peterman to see work with the Bills' first-team offense in next Sunday's preseason dress rehearsal against the Bengals.

Analysis: With McCarron presumably looking at a multi-week absence, the team's Week 1 starting QB assignment is now up for grabs. Though it was previously thought that the Bills would proceed deliberately in their development of Allen, the solid play of the No. 7 overall pick in April's draft in Friday's preseason win over the Browns suggest that he does have a shot to overtake Peterman, who was a fifth-round draft pick last year. From a fantasy perspective, Allen brings more upside to the table due to…read more

Published: Sat, Aug 18 at 7:32am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Solid with second unit

Allen completed nine of 13 passes for 60 yards and a touchdown and gained 18 yards on three carries in Friday's preseason win over the Browns.

Analysis: Allen comfortably outplayed Friday's starter, AJ McCarron, who suffered an injury that's believed to be a fractured collarbone, per Vic Carucci of The Buffalo News. If the injury is confirmed, the competition for the Week 1 starting job will come down to Allen and Nathan Peterman. As good as Peterman has been through the first two weeks of the preseason -- 11.6 yards per pass attempt -- he reportedly hasn't looked so sharp at training camp, and nobody can forget the five-interception meltdown…read more

Published: Fri, Aug 17 at 9:18pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Big test to come Friday?

Allen practiced with the second team for the third straight day Wednesday, Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports.

Analysis: It looks as though Allen is on track to see time with the second-team offense during Friday's exhibition against the Browns, but that doesn't mean he's passed AJ McCarron or Nathan Peterman in the battle for the top job. More likely, the Bills want to give the prized rookie a good test in the second preseason game, and preferred not to throw him out there without any prior familiarity with second team. Allen impressed while running the third unit in the preseason opener, so another good showing…read more

Published: Wed, Aug 15 at 12:17pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Mixed in with second team

After taking practice with all three units Sunday, Allen worked exclusively with the second-team offense for Monday's practice, Joe Buscaglia of WKBW.com reports.

Analysis: Buscaglia thinks Allen might even get reps with the first team during Tuesday's practice, which would be an indication he's not out of the mix for the starter's job, even though the Bills' plan all along has been to bring him along slowly. We still feel AJ McCarron and Nathan Peterman are the best bets to be the Week 1 starter, but it's clear the Bills like what they've seen in training camp from the highly touted rookie. Giving him some challenges along the way has always been part of the…read more

Published: Mon, Aug 13 at 11:05am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Mixed results in first NFL action

Allen completed nine of 19 passes for 116 yards and a touchdown in Thursday's preseason opener, rushing for 29 yards on three carries.

Analysis: The results were mixed in that Allen just missed on a number of passes while also proving to anyone who hadn't seen him yet that he's got a rocket for an arm. He also did a nice job running the two-minute drill at the end of the game. The Bills appear set on starting the season with the winner of the AJ McCarron/Nathan Peterman battle, but there's little doubt the long-term future of the franchise rests on Allen's rifle.

Published: Thu, Aug 9 at 10:54pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Mainly with third team

Allen practiced with the third-team offense for the fourth straight practice Tuesday, Mark Gaughan of The Buffalo News reports.

Analysis: The Bills will almost certainly start AJ McCarron or Nathan Peterman in Thursday's preseason opener against the Panthers, and it's becoming more likely the two veterans work with the starters for most of the preseason as the Bills try and determine their Week 1 signal-caller. The plan seems to be easing the promising Allen into the starting role, which might have to wait until well into his rookie season. He's a draft target in keeper leagues, but probably not in most redraft formats.

Published: Wed, Aug 8 at 8:00am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Sprinkled in with first unit

Allen, who had been spending most of his time with the third teamers during the early part of training camp, saw his most action yet with the first team Saturday, Sal Capaccio of WGR 550 reports.

Analysis: Allen threw two interceptions, but one was on a juggled ball and he also showed what all the fuss is about, proving once again to have much more zip on his passes than the guys he's competing with, AJ McCarron and Nathan Peterman. Coach Sean McDermott indicated he'll continue to let Allen dabble with the first team as camp moves along, That all said, most insiders still say McCarron remains the favorite and that Peterman is ahead of Allen simply based on experience. But rest assured, Allen will…read more

Published: Sat, Jul 28 at 7:01pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Working with third team

As was the case during minicamps, Allen spent most of his time during the first training camp practice Thursday with the third -teamers, Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports.

Analysis: Coach Sean McDermott continues to move Allen along with kid gloves, and the rookie's really going to have to prove he offers much more off the bat than AJ McCarron or Nathan Peterman if he wants any chance of leaving camp as the No. 1. Allen's best path to 2018 starts might instead be if the Bills take a step back from their 2017 playoff season and ultimately feel they have nothing to lose by giving Allen some starts, rather than him beating out two veterans right off the bat in camp.

Published: Thu, Jul 26 at 10:21pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Signs rookie contract

Allen signed a four-year contract with the Bills on Wednesday, Chris Mortensen of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Selected seventh overall in April's draft, the Wyoming product is expected to enter training camp as the Bills' No. 3 quarterback, but he should have a shot to compete for the starting spot with AJ McCarron and Nathan Peterman. The winner of the battle will be tasked with leading an undermanned unit, as the Bills don't have much talent behind Kelvin Benjamin at wide receiver and suffered major losses on the offensive line during the offseason.

Published: Wed, Jul 25 at 7:16am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Allen practiced with the first team for a couple of series in practice Tuesday, the first time he's done that in OTAs, Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports.
"Josh is going to continue with the third group like he's done before, but periodically we'll give Josh some reps with the ones," said coach Sean McDermott. "That's all part of his development plan and it lets us evaluate our entire roster from top to bottom. He'll still work with the threes by and large. Nate and AJ will continue with the ones and twos there, but we'll throw Josh in there from time to time moving forward."

Analysis: For the most part, the rookie looked decent, but this was a very limited dose of first-team action. There are still plenty of summer practices ahead for Allen to make his move, but this week's OTA sessions are just another reminder that McDermott isn't going to just hand the rookie the starting job. It'd be a bit of a shock if Nathan Peterman was the Week 1 starter, but veteran AJ McCarron seems to have every bit the chance at winning the job in the short term as Allen, who's clearly the…read more

Published: Tue, Jun 12 at 7:46pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com